Leo Tolstoy reading 1891

Ilya Repin's 1891 pencil drawing, "Leo Tolstoy reading", captures the renowned Russian author in a moment of quiet contemplation. The piece depicts Tolstoy reclining on a couch, deeply engrossed in a book, with a small table and a few objects nearby. Repin's masterful use of shading and linework creates a sense of depth and realism, highlighting Tolstoy's thoughtful expression and the serene atmosphere of his study. This intimate portrait, now housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, offers a glimpse into the private world of one of Russia's greatest literary icons.